POUGHKEEPSIE - Dutchess County Executive William R. Steinhaus and Veterans Services Agency Director Nelson Eddy Rivera are reminding Dutchess County Cold War veterans that in order to take advantage of a new property tax exemption, they must file an application with the local assessor by March 1st. The Dutchess County Veterans Services Agency is available to assist veterans get the necessary paperwork to provide to their local assessor.
“This property tax relief measure is a thank you to the men and women of Dutchess County who have worked so hard to serve our country,” said County Executive Steinhaus. “And we want to make sure all those who are eligible have signed up for it.”
Dutchess County Cold War veterans are eligible for a partial property tax exemption on qualifying residential real property to the extent of 15% of the assessed value of the property, up to a maximum allowable exemption of $12,000. The law also provides an additional exemption to disabled veterans.
“Cold War Property Tax Exemption” is available to veterans who served on fill time active duty in the United States Armed Forces between September 2, 1945 to December 26, 1991, were discharged or released under honorable conditions, and who are not currently receiving either the eligible funds or alternative veterans’ exemption for serving during a wartime period or received an expeditionary medal. Ownership and residency requirements must also be met.
Cold War veterans must apply by March 1st at their local assessor’s office for the tax breaks to be effective in 2009. Veterans will need to show proof of eligibility and are advised to contact the Dutchess County Veterans Service Agency for verification of service related eligibility before going to the assessor’s office.
According to VSA Director Rivera, “Cold War veterans should contact our office so we can assist them through the process quickly. Veterans will need to bring their Military Separation Papers and we will review their service related eligibility for the exemption. Once we have verified service related eligibility, we will provide the veteran a documentation letter to give to their local assessor.”
The Veterans Service Agency will also assist veterans in applying for the Cold War Certificate and can conduct a personalized review of all other Department of Veteran Affairs benefits they may be eligible for under the law.
“Our local veterans have provided a great service to our country. We want them to know we are here for them and encourage them to utilize our Veterans Service Agency to ensure they are getting all the benefits they have earned with their service,” concluded County Executive Steinhaus.
Are Cold War Veterns Widows Eligble?
ReplyDeleteJon Murray